Flatbed (48'/53' open deck) freight rate per mile
$2.90 - $3.65/mile
National-average reference range (DAT 2026 basis, all-in including fuel surcharge). Reference ranges only, your lane, season, and fuel will move these. Always price your own load. Price your load with the calculator below.
Low end
$2.90/mi
High end
$3.65/mi
Typical fuel economy
6.5 mpg
What drives the Flatbed rate
- Steel and lumber demand tracks construction activity and tariff cycles closely.
- Permit and escort loads add fixed fees that apply regardless of distance.
- Tarping labor: covered loads require time and physical work, typically worth $50-150 more.
- Seasonal build patterns push flatbed rates in spring and summer; winter construction slows.
How to price your Flatbed load
Quote base rate per mile, then add tarping, blocking, bracing, and permit fees as flat surcharges on top. Use the load calculator below to confirm net profit after all additional costs.
Open load profit calculatorFrequently asked questions
Flatbed (48'/53' open deck) is $2.90-$3.65/mile all-in (DAT 2026 national average). Your specific lane, season, and fuel costs will move these numbers significantly in either direction, so always price from your actual lane data before accepting a load.
